Wimbledon will follow the US and Aussie Opens in utilizing video review systems.
Replay systems are set to arrive at The Championships this year.
Athletes will gain the right to question particular rulings from the chair umpire, mirroring the protocol currently in operation at each of the American Grand Slam and the Aussie major.
This technology will be accessible on Centre Court and the number one court for the duration of the Championships and on the other four show courts when they are hosting singles contests.
This step comes just a year after the AELTC introduced electronic line calling, which terminated the 147-year role of line judges.
What Can Be Reviewed?
Competitors cannot to dispute the accuracy of the ELC system, but they can request the umpire to re-examine specific situations, such as:
- Whether a ball has bounced twice.
- If a ball touched an rival's racket or body during play.
- Potential interference at the conclusion of a point.
Notably, there will be no limit on the amount of challenges a competitor can initiate.
A Recent Example
A recent case occurred in Indian Wells recently, where Daniil Medvedev initiated the review system against Jack Draper.
The British player admitted it was a difficult situation for the official, but thought his opponent had "played the rules effectively."
Official Aurelie Tourte viewed a video and ruled Draper was responsible for interference, awarding the point to Medvedev.
Broader Adoption
Video reviews aren't new for Grand Slams. It was adopted at the American major since 2023 and the Aussie Open this year.
Additionally, it is becoming more common on the WTA circuit, and by the coming year the ATP circuit will have the system in place at all of its events.
Other Changes
Another innovation at Wimbledon this year will be the addition of visual indicators on scoreboards to complement the verbal announcements from the ELC system.
This addresses instances where spectators have occasionally been unsure if a shot was out or in.
Finally, with precisely 100 days to go until the beginning of the Championships, the AELTC have further revealed an increase in daily attendance at the qualifiers in Roehampton.
